”Getting our 2024 accounts over the line has been one of the toughest parts of my role as CEO, not once, but twice.
We weren’t just dealing with the usual complexities of SU finances — we were facing the consequences of limited financial expertise, and practices and processes that simply weren’t strong enough to carry us through. It left us exposed and carrying real risk.
Some of the best conversations I’ve had this year were with Sam Male from SMG... From the very beginning, he understood both the technical challenges and the realities of our sector. Together with Joe Giles, they have been persistent, patient and clear throughout… They’ve brought technical expertise, sector knowledge, and the calm assurance we needed to keep moving forward when it felt messy.
Value for money doesn’t come close — the difference has been transformative. If any SU, charity or organisation is looking for more than just accountants, I would recommend SMG without hesitation.”
- Dionne Walton • Chief Exec University of Suffolk Student’s Union
“Our finance function has been transformed; moving away from lengthy, labour intensive paperwork to digital and streamlined cloud-based systems – like Nook and Equals Money. We’ve also established regular financial reporting to our Trustee Board, ensuring there is consistent monitoring.
On top of that, we’ve had our first two sets of accurate management accounts, for the first time in a looong time!
None of this would have been possible without the man, the myth, the legend Sam Male - who has been patient, supportive and provided valuable expertise throughout our journey.
I didn’t quite anticipate just how much of a difference this work would make (or how much fun I would have doing it!) and can’t wait to build on this in 2025, alongside new challenges too!”
- Rachel Wall • Deputy CEO at Middlesex University Students’ Union
“Sam’s been with us at The Yard Theatre during a time of massive change… He’s been right there in the thick of it, facing every new challenge with energy and enthusiasm. He’s led on budgeting, forecasting, business model changes, and of course the all important cashflow.
…what’s stood out most is the support Sam has given to me and the rest of the team. Being an Executive Director can be a lonely role at times, and an overwhelming one, with decisions big and small coming at you thick and fast – and Sam has helped me get through the hard moments… and made sure we properly celebrate the wins too.
He really understood the spirit of The Yard and became part of the team – which isn’t something you can always say about freelance finance people.
If you’re looking for someone who’s not just excellent at what they do… I recommend Sam!””
- Ashleigh Wheeler • Executive Director at The Yard Theatre